How to Travel to Fátima: Whether from Lisbon or Porto

How to Travel to Fátima: Whether from Lisbon or Porto

Fátima is one of the most visited religious destinations in Portugal, attracting millions of pilgrims and tourists each year. Located in central Portugal, the town is famous for the Sanctuary of Fátima, a major Marian pilgrimage site. Whether you are traveling from Lisbon or Porto, there are multiple transportation options, including car, bus, and train. This guide will cover all the ways to reach Fátima, so you can choose the best option based on time, cost, and convenience.

1. Traveling from Lisbon to Fátima

1.1. By Car

Driving from Lisbon to Fátima is a comfortable and flexible option, especially for those who prefer to travel at their own pace. The distance is approximately 125 km (78 miles), and the journey takes around 1 hour and 30 minutes via the A1 highway (Autoestrada do Norte).

Driving Route:

Take the A1 highway northbound (direction Porto).
Drive for about 120 km (75 miles) until you reach Exit 8 for Fátima.
Follow the signs for Fátima/Santuário de Fátima.

Costs and Considerations:

Tolls: The A1 highway has a toll fee of approximately €9.
Parking: There are several free parking areas near the Sanctuary, but availability may be limited during major religious events.
Car Rental: If you don’t have a car, rental prices start from €30 to €70 per day, depending on the vehicle type and season.

 

✅ Pros: Fast, convenient, and flexible.
❌ Cons: Higher cost due to tolls and fuel, potential traffic congestion.

TOUR FATIMA Private Tour Fatima Batalha Nazare and Óbidos >>> Group Tour Fatima Batalha Nazare and Óbidos >>>

1.2. By Bus

Taking a bus is one of the most affordable and practical ways to reach Fátima from Lisbon. The Rede Expressos bus company offers frequent daily departures.

Bus Information:

Duration: 1 hour 30 minutes to 2 hours.
Cost: Around €12 to €15 one way.
Departure Point: Lisbon’s Sete Rios Bus Terminal.
Arrival Point: Fátima Bus Station, a short walk from the Sanctuary.
Frequency: Buses depart almost every hour, from 6:30 AM to 11:00 PM.

 

✅ Pros: Cheap, comfortable, and reliable.
❌ Cons: Fixed schedules, slightly slower than a car.

1.3. By Train

Although Portugal has a well-developed rail network, there is no direct train from Lisbon to Fátima. The nearest train station is Caxarias, about 20 km (12 miles) from Fátima, requiring a taxi or bus transfer.

Train Route:

Board a train from Lisbon’s Santa Apolónia or Oriente Station towards Porto Campanhã.
Get off at Caxarias Station (approximately 1 hour 30 minutes to 2 hours).
Take a taxi or bus to Fátima (about 20 minutes by taxi, costing €20-25).

Costs:

Train ticket: €8 to €15 (depending on the train type).
Taxi or bus from Caxarias to Fátima: €3-€25.

✅ Pros: Comfortable for train lovers.
❌ Cons: Requires an additional taxi or bus, making it less convenient.

Read Also
Boat Tours in Lisbon on the Tagus River
How to Travel from Lisbon to Porto
How to Get from Lisbon to Cascais

 

2. Traveling from Porto to Fátima

2.1. By Car

Driving from Porto to Fátima is another convenient option, especially for those traveling in groups or seeking flexibility. The distance is 195 km (121 miles), and the journey takes approximately 2 hours via the A1 highway.

Driving Route:

Take the A1 highway southbound (direction Lisbon).
Drive for about 190 km (118 miles) until you reach Exit 8 for Fátima.
Follow the signs to the Sanctuary of Fátima.

Costs and Considerations:

Tolls: The A1 highway toll costs about €10.
Parking: Free parking is available near the Sanctuary.
Car Rental: If needed, rentals in Porto range from €30 to €70 per day.

 

✅ Pros: Comfortable, flexible, and faster than public transport.
❌ Cons: Tolls and fuel costs add to expenses.

2.2. By Bus

Buses from Porto to Fátima are an excellent alternative for those looking for an affordable and hassle-free trip. The Rede Expressos service operates direct routes.

Bus Information:

Duration: 2 hours 30 minutes to 3 hours.
Cost: €15 to €20 one way.
Departure Point: Porto’s Campo 24 de Agosto Bus Terminal.
Arrival Point: Fátima Bus Station, close to the Sanctuary.
Frequency: Several buses per day.

✅ Pros: Budget-friendly, comfortable seats, and no need for transfers.
❌ Cons: Less flexible than driving, possible delays.

2.3. By Train

As with Lisbon, there is no direct train from Porto to Fátima. The nearest train station is Caxarias, requiring an extra taxi or bus ride.

Train Route:

Take a train from Porto Campanhã Station towards Lisbon.
Get off at Caxarias Station (1 hour 45 minutes to 2 hours 15 minutes).
Take a taxi (20 minutes, ~€25) or bus to Fátima.

Costs:

Train ticket: €10 to €20.
Taxi or bus to Fátima: €3-€25.

✅ Pros: Comfortable, good for train enthusiasts.
❌ Cons: Requires a taxi or bus, making it less direct.